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July 21, 2009

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The chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.), is satisfied with the White House's explanation of the firing of Americorps Inspector General Gerald Walpin and is not planning to investigate further.

"We have met with White House staff and interviewed staff at the Corporation for National and Community Service, and Democratic and Republican board members, and have reviewed hundreds of pages of documents," Towns said in a statement Tuesday. "This evidence shows that the Corporation board’s report expressing concerns about Mr. Walpin’s performance was fact-based, unanimous, and nonpartisan. Based on this evidence, I am satisfied that the President had legitimate reasons for removing Mr. Walpin, and complied with the Inspector General Act. In light of our review, and because Mr. Walpin has now filed a lawsuit challenging his dismissal, I do not expect the Committee to take further investigative action at this time."

The statement comes soon after a 30-day window for Congressional review of Obama's decision to terminate Walpin ran out. Some members of Congress had raised concerns that Obama didn't adequately explain his reasons, though most of those who did so now seem to be satisfied. However, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is still pressing for more answers about the firing.

Last week, Walpin filed a lawsuit alleging that his dismissal was unlawful. Towns's statement cites that as one reason for the committee dropping the issue.

Towns said he is seeking further information about disputes involving other inspectors general: those for Amtrak and the International Trade Commission

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Reader Comments (6)

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A shame. The current "Thugocracy" reigns- for now.
Mr. Walpin was highly competent, wise, and polite while he told the truth about what was going on at Fannie/Freddie et.al. So the thugs proceeded to perform character assassination and swept it umder the rug. Of course the (liberal) Media left it there, even though it was obviously wrong, while their pockets are lined by the Liberal Elite. We'll see how l;ong that lasts: The current Administration is suffering plummetting public confidence.
As the truth comes to light, how much longer will their house of cards stand?

Boy am I surprised by the findings of the committee. The GOP does not have the courage on anything. Yes sir Mr. Edolphus, whatever you say Mr. Edolphus. The friends of BHO have a free pass on everything.
Don't you love this great change that BHO has given America? NOT!!!!!!!!!!

"This democracy can not survive without the intellectual and moral character of the people," John Adams (paraphrased) 1778. I believe .... that Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.) is lying. I believe that he's being intimidated - as so many people seem to be. He needs to have his constituants intimidate him a little - he should be thrown out on his ear. Clearly, the Obama's are protecting Kevin Johnson - and frankly how many others?

This is disgusting!! Walpin, is and honest brilliant man. Out of a job because of Obama's dishonest buddy!! Reminds me of 2 border guards who went to prison for doing their job a few years ago..Is this still America? Every where is corruption, especially at the top..

Is there no way around this form of "chicago" style of politics to get to the truth and some common sense? This president does not like criticism. His "hit-men" go after them and try to destroy their credibility. WE THE PEOPLE need to make a change we can believe in!

Where is Ken Starr? Special prosecutor is needed to ascertain all the facts. Congress cannot be trusted anymore. They have no credibility. Transparency and honesty are becoming extinct in Washington. Eric Holder needs to appoint a special prosecutor, NOW!!